Honorary Degree Recipients

Overview

The University of Connecticut awards honorary degrees "only in recognition
of extraordinary and lasting distinction. The award should represent the
highest intellectual and moral values; its hould reflect the very character
and quality of the University itself." (Article XVII, University of
Connecticut Laws and Bylaws)

For many years the University of Connecticut did not award honorary degrees
based on a ruling early in the 20th century by a state attorney general.
Using a strict interpretation of the law, the ruling banned honorary degrees
because the legislature had authorized the granting of degrees for courses
taken, and no courses led to an honorary degree. A later attorney general
overturned that intrepretation, and since 1982 the University has conferred
honorary degrees each year.

Prior to 1982, honorary degrees were presented to three individuals:

1918 - Robert M. Landers, Master of Science. Landers
was chairman of the Commission of Food Supply and Conservation of the
State Council of Defense during World War I.

1918 - Robert Scoville, Master of Science. Federal
Food Administrator for Connecticut, also during World War I.

1934 - Edwina M. Whitney, Master of Letters. Awarded
upon her retirement as college librarian. She had served since 1900
and also taught German and English.